African Amber, Antique Diamond Shape 33x30mm Deep Rich Brown Color, Two-Way Holes
African Amber, Antique Diamond Shape 33x30mm Deep Rich Brown Color, Two-Way Holes
African Amber, Antique Diamond Shape 33x30mm Deep Rich Brown Color, Two-Way Holes

African Amber, Antique Diamond Shape 33x30mm Deep Rich Brown Color, Two-Way Holes

SKU: JSD-943
Sale price $30.00

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Description

  • Rich, warm, mahogany brown diamond shape African amber bead, 33x30mm
  • The dark color indicates that this is one of the earliest African amber beads. The pre-1940 formula darkens over time, later resins did not have this property.
  • This bead is in excellent condition except for a small scar near the central hole on one side and signs of excessive wear on one side of one of the vertical holes. If stringing these beads that can be remedied by inserting a small bead that fits tightly into the opening of that hole. This will keep the bead hanging straight.
  • The center holes were drilled so women could wear these in their hair, but they offer us a variety of creative options.
  • The material these vintage/antique beads are made of is an early synthetic called phenolic thermosetting resin. It was developed in 1910. Bakelite is the best known brand among several European manufacturers producing faux amber beads, jewelry and household products before World War II.
  • Phenolic resin amber beads probably started coming to Africa as a substitute for real Baltic amber in the 1920s and 1930s and trade lasted into the 1950s according to recent research by Rosanna Falabella.
  • Several generations of newer resin beads have followed, some better than others,  but none can approach the beauty and durability of the original phenolic resins which are now almost 100 years old, and wear it well.
  • From the collection of Joyce Diamanti, bead researcher, writer and educator.